Where & How to Accent

Accenting your space in your own unique way can be challenging. Places like Pinterest are filled with beautifully designed homes with custom shelving or fireplaces, accent walls, boldly coloured sofas, large pieces of art and the list goes on. In this post we’re going to explore some of the options out there to help you find a starting point on which type of accent works best you and your home.

Accents are meant to pop and create visual interest!

Furniture

When it comes to furniture it is commonly seen as an investment, and ideally something you plan to have in your home for 3 or more years. As, A bold furniture choice does not necessarily mean you’re buying a bright red leather sofa set! Accent furniture can be a bold colour choice in your sofa, a pattered accent chair or something in a different style with unique features and materials to draw interest within the space. This will make your furniture stand out as the focal design choice within your living area.

Consider your style and the needs of your home. Perhaps a white sofa is not the greatest choice for a busy family with young children, but a large, dark sofa with a patterned accent chair will meet all your needs and style as your family grows!

Structure

This pertains to your walls and general space. Many people choose to elevate their space using an accent wall or space. This can range from a complementary colour, to wallpaper, to paneling or built-ins. This is something that, though it can be a lot of work, can easily be changed and altered throughout the years to accommodate changes in style.

Consider stepping away from the neural colour pallet, adding a playful wallpaper or even creating an accent entertainment/storage space!

Décor

The easiest way to accent your space is décor! Choosing a statement area rug, unique table lamps, bold artwork and playful pillows is an easy way to bring some personality into your space. Décor is something that can stay the same throughout the year or change seasonally (or weekly) depending on how you want to express yourself in your space.

Consider what types of décor work best for you. Are you a minimalist, or a maximalist, do you prefer functional items over stationary Just for Show items?  

Blending Your Accents

I believe that there is no “right” way to do something. Your home is your space and you are a different person than your neighbor, or your sister-in-law, or a blog on Pinterest. Blending accents that work for you is how you’re going to create the ultimate space for you!

Depending on your personal style, budget and needs you can blend your furniture, structure and décor together to create something amazing. Perhaps you choose to be bold and paint your living room a deep, moody colour like Navy. A white or light cream coloured set of furniture will contrast well with the bold paint choice and can be accented with natural or blue-toned throws. Finish off the space with a gallery wall of your favorite photos (perhaps warm-toned black and white family photos or printed with blues and golds), greenery and your Home Garden ready!

Or maybe you like the minimalist look but want to have some flare with your furniture… Choose a soft and neutral paint colour and pair this with your seating. A coloured leather or textured fabric will add some interest without causing drama. Pair with a metal coffee table, unique floor lamp, large artwork and floor to ceiling linen curtains.

This blog has been written by Halle McKay with HB McKay Design & Consultations

Visit us at https://hbmckaydesign.wixsite.com/home or on Instagram @hbmckay.design for more